Martin was born in Norway on the 7th of November 1875, and several site have his birthplace listed as Oleesen, though I cannot find record of any city or town in Norway with this name. Details of his emigration to the United States are unknown, as well as when he enlisted in the US Navy, but it is known that Martin was a Gunner’s Mate Third Class when he deployed to China is support of the Boxer Rebellion and his actions earned him the Medal of Honor. The citation reads:

In action with the relief expedition of the Allied forces in China, 13, 20, 21, and 22 June 1900. During this period and in the presence of the enemy, Torgerson distinguished himself by meritorious conduct.

Martin received the Medal of Honor one year later on the 19th of July 1901, and he and his wife Marie had one son, Harry, that would serve in the Marines during World War 2. On the 12th of June 1935, Martin Torinus Torgerson died at the age of 59 in Rosedale, New York, and he and his wife are buried in Arlington National Cemetery: Section 6, Lot 8680.